Five of the biggest gambling firms in the UK have agreed to contribute more money to fund problem gambling treatment.
The owners of William Hill, Ladbrokes Coral, Paddy Power Betfair, Skybet and Bet 365 will increase their voluntary levy on gambling profits from 0.1 per cent to one per cent up to 2023 - a contribution of £60m.
It comes amid criticism of the industry on how little it spends to help plem gamblers compared with its marketing budget. Earlier this month, NHS England chief executive Simon Stevens warned betting firms could be taxed to pay for addiction treatment.
Stevens condemned the “fraction” spent by industry on helping those struggling with addiction, compared with the amount spent on advertising and marketing. The companies said cumulatively they would spend £100m on treatment over the next four years.
